The Ferrari California represented a new direction for the brand when it came out in 2009, as Ferrari had never before built a front-engine, V8-powered vehicle. The California was also designed to offer improved usability compared to other Ferrari models, thanks to a power-folding hardtop, four seats and a more traditional driving position than the low-slung cockpit found in many of the brand's vehicles.

Today's Ferrari California continues what the 2009 model started, with few changes from the initial design. Power still comes from a 4.3-liter V8, though it was bumped to 483 horses and 372 lb-ft last year -- an increase of 30 hp and 14 lb-ft over the original. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic is still the only transmission. And there's still seating for four, though we should note that the rear seats are a bit cramped. The California also retains the same power-folding hardtop as the original 2009 model, an attractive feature that lets drivers enjoy the car no matter the weather.

With a new model on the way, the 2014 Ferrari California is largely unchanged compared to last year's model. Base pricing still hovers around $200,000, and options are both plentiful and expensive. But if you're interested in combining the cachet of the Ferrari name with practicality and top-down driving enjoyment, the California is your car.

This image is a stock photo and is not an exact representation of any vehicle offered for sale. Advertised vehicles of this model may have styling, trim levels, colors and optional equipment that differ from the stock photo.